Debshankar Haldar, a prominent figure in Bengali theatre and film, boasts a rich career spanning decades. His contributions extend beyond acting to encompass writing and directing, solidifying his position as a versatile artist.
Wiki/Biography
Debshankar Haldar entered the world on Friday, January 8, 1965, in Kolkata. A Capricorn by birth, he completed his graduation from Scottish Church College, University of Calcutta. His involvement in student politics during his college years hints at his dynamic personality. His father, a Bengali actor, played a pivotal role in introducing him to the world of theatre.
In 1986, a pivotal workshop organized by the renowned Nandikar theatre group ignited his passion for acting, ultimately leading him to pursue a career as a theatre artist.
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 5′ 7″
- Hair Colour: Brown
- Eye Colour: Brown
Family & Caste
Hailing from a Hindu family, Debshankar’s father, Abhay Haldar, was a respected actor in Bengali Jatra theatre. While details about his mother remain scarce, he has a brother, Amiya Haldar, who is also an active actor within the Bengali theatre group, Bohurupee.
He is happily married to Suparna Haldar.
Career
Debshankar’s theatrical journey commenced in 1987 with Nandikar, where he showcased his talent in plays like “Shesh Shakkhatkar,” “Gotroheen,” “Football,” “Nagar Kirtan,” and “Jaha Chai.” His contributions extended to various other theatre groups, enriching his repertoire with diverse roles.
His impressive body of work includes productions with Sansriti (“Winkle Twinkle”), Gonokrishti (“Virus M”), Natyaranga (“Shajahan”), Blank Verse (“Furrut”), Story Teller (“Topi”), and Lokkrishti (“Romcom”).
Beyond the stage, Debshankar has made significant appearances in several Bengali films, including “Drishyantar,” “Kalkijug,” “Accident,” “Alik Sukh,” “Arundhati,” and “Maya Mridanga.”
His multifaceted talent extends to writing and directing, with over 40 children’s plays to his credit, a notable one being “Bhalo Manush Noigo Mora.”
Awards
His exceptional contributions have been recognized through prestigious awards:
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| ABP Ananda Sera Bangali Award for Best Actor | 2013 |
| Sangeet Natak Academy Award | 2014 |
| Bengali Stage Centenary Star Theatre Award | 2018 |
Favourite Things
- Food: Baigun Bhajja, Bhapaa Aloo
- Actors: Uttam Kumar, Al Pacino
- Colour: White
Facts/Trivia
- Reading novels and writing are among his cherished hobbies.
- He initially harbored aspirations of becoming a writer.
- He holds the remarkable record of performing in 23 productions concurrently, an unprecedented achievement in Bengali theatre.
- Known for his versatility, he once flawlessly portrayed four distinct characters in a single day during a theatre festival.
- His remarkable talent has earned him the accolade of “the Shah Rukh Khan of Bengali drama.”
- In 2010, the Rangapat theatre group organized a festival celebrating his extensive body of work, a testament to his significant contribution to Bengali theatre.
